Garda Investigations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 February 2017

Tuesday, 28 February 2017

Ceisteanna (120)

Micheál Martin

Ceist:

120. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she or her officials have recently reviewed a case (details supplied); the circumstances that led to the person's death by a person that was repeatedly on bail and that had numerous convictions involving drugs and alcohol; if she has discussed this with the Taoiseach, who has met the family recently; if the Government is considering a commission of inquiry into the actions that were taken by gardaí in regard to all of the convictions of the person responsible for the death of the person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9773/17]

Freagraí scríofa

Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality

The tragic case to which the Deputy refers was considered under the Independent Review Mechanism (IRM) established to review certain allegations of Garda misconduct, or inadequacies in the investigation of certain allegations, which were made to me as Minister for Justice and Equality, or the Taoiseach.

The recommendation made by the IRM in this particular case was that I should take no further action. As Counsel pointed out the appropriate forum for raising matters related to alleged Garda failings was the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) who were already investigating certain matters arising from the tragic death in this case. This arises in part from the fact that my predecessor had referred aspects of this particular case to GSOC. I understand that that investigation has not concluded. I should also mention that a civil action has been initiated against the State in respect of issues raised in the complaint.

When the Taoiseach and I recently met with the family, the Taoiseach assured them that when the GSOC investigation is completed the question of whether, and if so, what further action can be taken, will be considered. That remains the position. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that in the circumstances it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.